Cranberry sauce is a holiday hero, bursting with tartness and sweetness that dances on your palate. Imagine the vibrant crimson color glistening in the light, competing only with the golden turkey for attention on your dinner table.
Every spoonful of this delightful sauce brings back memories of family gatherings, laughter echoing, and the unmistakable aroma of spices filling the air. Whether it’s Thanksgiving or a random Tuesday night craving, this cranberry sauce is always ready to elevate any meal with its bright flavor.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This cranberry sauce is incredibly easy to prepare and requires minimal ingredients
- The balance of tart berries and sweet sugar creates an irresistible flavor combination
- Its rich red hue makes it a stunning addition to your table
- Versatile enough to pair with turkey, ham, or even as a spread on toast
One memorable instance was when my aunt served this cranberry sauce at Thanksgiving, and everyone went back for seconds, leaving no trace behind in mere minutes.
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
Fresh Cranberries: Opt for plump, bright cranberries; they should bounce when dropped—no squishy berries allowed.
Sugar: Regular granulated sugar works best to enhance the natural tartness of cranberries.
Water: Just a bit to help the cranberries cook down into that perfect sauce consistency.
Orange Zest: Adds a lovely citrusy brightness; make sure to use fresh zest for maximum flavor.
Cinnamon Stick: A hint of warmth from cinnamon elevates this sauce to new heights—who doesn’t love a bit of spice?
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make Cranberry Sauce
Prep Your Ingredients: Start by rinsing those fresh cranberries under cold water. Discard any that look sad or wrinkly—nobody wants old berries in their life.
Combine Ingredients in a Pot: In a medium saucepan, combine cranberries, sugar, water, orange zest, and the cinnamon stick. Stir gently until everything is mixed well.
Cook Over Medium Heat: Turn on the heat and bring your mixture to a gentle boil. You should hear bubbling sounds and see steam rising—this is where the magic begins.
Watch for Popping Berries: As it simmers for about 10 minutes, you’ll hear some cranberries pop! This indicates they are releasing their juices and transforming into sauce.
Cool & Serve: Remove from heat and let cool slightly before transferring it to a serving dish. It will thicken as it cools—perfect for slathering over turkey or enjoying with cheese later!
This cranberry sauce is easy enough for anyone to whip up but impressive enough to wow guests at any gathering. Plus, you can customize it by adding other spices or fruits if you’re feeling adventurous!
You Must Know
- Cranberry sauce is the perfect balance of tart and sweet
- The vibrant color and tangy flavor elevate any dish
- Plus, it pairs beautifully with everything from turkey to cheese platters
- Homemade cranberry sauce is much fresher than store-bought versions, making it a must-try!
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by simmering fresh cranberries in water and sugar. This ensures a beautiful texture and rich flavor while allowing the cranberries to pop delightfully.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to mix in orange zest or cinnamon for extra warmth. You can even add chopped nuts for a delightful crunch and varied texture.
Storing & Reheating
Store cranberry sauce in an airtight container in the fridge for up to two weeks. Reheat gently on the stove, adding a splash of water if needed to restore its luscious consistency.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Always rinse fresh cranberries before cooking; this removes any debris and enhances their natural flavor
- Allow your sauce to cool completely before storing; this prevents excess moisture buildup
- If you prefer a smoother texture, blend the sauce after cooking for a silky finish
Sharing my first Thanksgiving where I made cranberry sauce was unforgettable. My family raved about it, and I felt like a kitchen rockstar that day!
FAQ
Can I use frozen cranberries for this recipe?
Yes, frozen cranberries work well and save time during busy holidays.
How long does homemade cranberry sauce last?
Homemade cranberry sauce lasts up to two weeks when stored properly in the fridge.
Can I make cranberry sauce ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare it up to one week in advance for convenience.
Cranberry Sauce
Cranberry sauce is the quintessential holiday companion, infusing your meals with its delightful blend of tartness and sweetness. This easy-to-make recipe requires just a few simple ingredients, transforming fresh cranberries into a vibrant sauce perfect for Thanksgiving or any occasion. With a bright flavor that complements turkey, ham, or even toast, this homemade cranberry sauce is sure to impress your guests and spark nostalgia at every gathering.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 4 servings 1x
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Simmering
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 12 oz fresh cranberries (about 3 cups)
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup water
- Zest of 1 orange
- 1 cinnamon stick
Instructions
- 1. Rinse cranberries under cold water and remove any damaged berries.
- 2. In a medium saucepan, combine cranberries, sugar, water, orange zest, and cinnamon stick. Stir well.
- 3. Bring to a gentle boil over medium heat, allowing the mixture to simmer for about 10 minutes until berries pop and release their juices.
- 4. Remove from heat and let cool slightly before transferring to a serving dish. The sauce will thicken as it cools.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 60g
- Calories: 90
- Sugar: 20g
- Sodium: 0mg
- Fat: 0g
- Saturated Fat: 0g
- Unsaturated Fat: 0g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 24g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 0g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Keywords: For added flavor, consider incorporating chopped nuts or additional spices like nutmeg. Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to two weeks and reheat gently on the stove if needed.
